The open hatch bulk carrier, often referred to as OHBC or conbulker, is designed to offer direct access to the hold through cargo hatches which extend the full width of the vessel.
If it is possible, the holds or hatches are designed around standard cargo unit sizes.
The open hatches are useful for forest products, such as pre-slung timber and logs.
The heavy units are more easy to handle than in a conventional bulk carrier.
The first open hatch bulk carrier was built in 1962, for the use of paper trade.